Enter the volume under pressure and temperature in the reservoir (bbl) and the volume of oil measured under standard conditions (bbl) into the Calculator. The calculator will evaluate the Oil Formation Volume Factor. 

Oil Formation Volume Factor Formula

OFV = Vpt / Vsc

Variables:

  • OFV is the Oil Formation Volume Factor ()
  • Vpt is the volume under pressure and temperature in the reservoir (bbl)
  • Vsc is the volume of oil measured under standard conditions (bbl)

To calculate Oil Formation Volume Factor, divide the volume under pressure and temperature in the reservoir by the volume under standard conditions.

How to Calculate Oil Formation Volume Factor?

The following steps outline how to calculate the Oil Formation Volume Factor.


  1. First, determine the volume under pressure and temperature in the reservoir (bbl). 
  2. Next, determine the volume of oil measured under standard conditions (bbl). 
  3. Next, gather the formula from above = OFV = Vpt / Vsc.
  4. Finally, calculate the Oil Formation Volume Factor.
  5. After inserting the variables and calculating the result, check your answer with the calculator above.

Example Problem : 

Use the following variables as an example problem to test your knowledge.

volume under pressure and temperature in reservoir (bbl) = 51

volume of oil measured under standard conditions (bbl) = 40

FAQ

What is the significance of the Oil Formation Volume Factor (OFV) in the oil industry?

The Oil Formation Volume Factor (OFV) is crucial in the oil industry because it helps in estimating the recoverable oil volume from a reservoir. It indicates how fluid properties change under different pressure and temperature conditions, which is essential for designing efficient extraction and production strategies.

How does temperature and pressure affect the volume of oil in a reservoir?

Temperature and pressure significantly affect the volume of oil in a reservoir. Generally, as pressure increases or temperature decreases, the volume of oil decreases. Conversely, decreasing pressure or increasing temperature can cause the oil volume to expand. These changes are critical for understanding reservoir behavior and optimizing oil recovery.

Can the Oil Formation Volume Factor change over time?

Yes, the Oil Formation Volume Factor can change over time as the reservoir conditions change. This can be due to depletion of the reservoir, changes in temperature and pressure, or injection of gases or water to enhance recovery. Monitoring these changes is vital for accurate reservoir management and forecasting.

Why is it important to measure oil volume under standard conditions?

Measuring oil volume under standard conditions (usually 60 degrees Fahrenheit and 14.7 psi) is important for consistency and comparability. It allows for a standardized measurement that can be used to compare volumes across different fields, reservoirs, or production methods, facilitating more accurate assessments and decisions in the oil industry.